The relationship between the structural properties of inorganic compounds and their conductivity lies in the arrangement of atoms, ions, and electrons within the compound, as well as the type of bonding present. Conductivity in inorganic compounds is primarily due to the movement of charge carriers, such as electrons or ions. There are three main types of inorganic compounds based on their conductivity: insulators, semiconductors, and conductors.1. Insulators: These compounds have very low conductivity due to the absence of free charge carriers. In insulating inorganic compounds, the electrons are tightly bound to the atoms or ions, and there is a large energy gap between the valence and conduction bands. Examples of insulators include most non-metal oxides, such as SiO2 and Al2O3.2. Semiconductors: These compounds have intermediate conductivity, which can be altered by factors such as temperature, impurities, and external electric fields. In semiconducting inorganic compounds, the energy gap between the valence and conduction bands is relatively small, allowing for some electrons to be excited into the conduction band, creating free charge carriers. Examples of semiconductors include silicon Si , germanium Ge , and some metal sulfides, such as ZnS and CdS.3. Conductors: These compounds have high conductivity due to the presence of a large number of free charge carriers. In conducting inorganic compounds, the valence and conduction bands overlap, or there is a partially filled band, allowing for easy movement of electrons. Examples of conductors include metals, such as copper Cu and silver Ag , and some metal oxides, such as RuO2 and ReO3.To determine the conductivity of different types of inorganic compounds, one can examine their structural properties, such as:1. Crystal structure: The arrangement of atoms or ions in a compound can influence the movement of charge carriers. For example, in a close-packed structure, there may be more pathways for charge carriers to move, leading to higher conductivity.2. Type of bonding: The type of bonding present in a compound can affect its conductivity. Ionic compounds, such as NaCl, typically have low electronic conductivity but can have high ionic conductivity when dissolved in water or in the molten state. Covalent compounds, such as SiO2, typically have low conductivity due to the localized nature of the electrons. Metallic compounds, such as Cu and Ag, have high conductivity due to the presence of delocalized electrons.3. Defects and impurities: The presence of defects or impurities in a compound can alter its conductivity. For example, introducing dopants in a semiconductor can increase its conductivity by creating additional charge carriers.By examining these structural properties, one can predict the conductivity of different types of inorganic compounds and tailor their properties for specific applications, such as in electronic devices, sensors, and energy storage systems.